(Header/feature image courtesy of Eric Hartline-Imagn Images) The Philadelphia Flyers announced on Tuesday that Ian Laperriere, who served as head coach of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms from 2021-2025, has been named as an advisor to Hockey Operations. Laperriere played for the Flyers for the 2009-10 season. Following his retirement from playing due to post-concussion syndrome and nerve damage to his eyes, he was named Director of Player Development for the organization in 2012. He went on to serve as an assistant coach from 2013-2021. "I want to thank Ian for his tireless work in Lehigh Valley for the last four seasons," said Flyers General Manager Danny Briere. "He not only led the Phantoms in a return to the playoffs, but provided crucial development to several of our prospects. I am excited to welcome him back to the Flyers so he can continue to provide his insight in helping our team as we enter the next phase of the rebuild." The Flyers also confirmed that the search for a new Phantoms head coach will begin "immediately."
